Evolutionism under spotlight
Wednesday, 02 Jan 2008 12:06
How the Earth developed is still disputed by some
The scientific community must become more involved in ensuring science education is taught in schools, a coalition of experts has warned.
Seventeen US organisations have spoken out against creationism and intelligent design being taught, saying this undermines the fundamentals of science education.
These include using the scientific method, understanding how to reach scientific consensus and distinguishing between scientific and non-scientific explanations of natural phenomena.
Although evolution is taught throughout US schools, some areas have large numbers of people who believe in creationism – the idea that the universe was created by God.
Writing in the FASEB Journal, the coalition, which includes the National Academy of Sciences and the American Institute of Physics, says scientists have a key role in educating the public.
Their article is based on a survey of 1,000 US voters which showed greater support for the teaching of evolution than creationism and a desire for scientists to talk about evolution, rather than supreme court justices or school board members.
"The bottom line is that the world is round, humans evolved from an extinct species, and Elvis is dead," said Dr Gerald Weissmann, editor-in-chief of the FASEB Journal.
"This survey is a wake-up call for anyone who supports teaching information based on evidence rather than speculation or hope; people want to hear the truth, and they want to hear it from scientists."